Lake Elmo Minnesota

Lake Elmo Minnesota

David Olson, RealtorBy David Olson, Realtor · October 25, 2026 · 4 min read
Lake Elmo Minnesota

Twin Cities Property Finder · David Olson, Broker · MN #BK3603584 · Whitefish Property Finder · MN #40646463 · Licensed in Minnesota, Wisconsin and Florida

The city of Lake Elmo, Minnesota is located just east of St. Paul and near the middle of Washington County.

If you’re thinking about a home near the water, here’s what to know about the lake and the area around it.

Here’s an honest look, whether you’re selling or buying.

Thinking about a home near the water?I’ll show you what homes nearby are really selling for and which streets fit your budget.

Life on Lake Elmo

A medium-sized city, which encompasses an area of just over 24 square miles and is home to 8,100 residents. Named after the nearby lake, Lake Elmo, the city has a rural feel while offering some of the amenities expected in a suburb of the Twin Cities metro.

Residents of this community appreciate the large amounts of open land found within the city. The typical residence includes acreage, with much of the city’s land still being farmland. There are, however, many suburban developments within the city as well. The Downtown is one of the most cherished components of the city. Home to the historic and elegant Lake Elmo Inn, residents appreciate the history that downtown Lake Elmo brings to the community. With a wide array of outdoor spaces open to the public, including the renowned Lake Elmo Park Reserve in the heart of the city, this peaceful city offers residents a scenic, peaceful community in which to call home.

Lake Elmo is 19 miles (21 minutes) away from St. Paul. Major routes within the city include State Highway 36 to the north, Interstate 94 to the south, and Interstate 694 to the west. All three of these routes connect Lake Elmo to its neighboring cities as well as the Greater Minneapolis-St. Paul area. For residents desiring greater commercial amenities, the Twin Cities offer excellent dining, shopping, entertainment, and recreation options. With a short drive, residents have access to some of the best amenities available within the entire state. For those who are seeking a community that has a rural feel while having excellent access to the excitement of urban life, Lake Elmo is an excellent option.

To learn more about the community, history, parks, and schools within the city, please refer to our supporting articles.

A simple plan for your Lake Elmo move

I’ve been helping people sell and buy homes across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Florida for about two decades, and I build and remodel luxury homes too. I’ll help you see both what a property is and what it could be.

1Get clear on the numbersFor sellers, a realistic value for your specific home. For buyers, what your budget actually buys in the neighborhoods you like.
2Walk it with a builder’s eyeWe spot what an inspector is likely to flag before it becomes a negotiation.
3Prepare or positionSellers get a prep list and a staging plan. Buyers get a short list of homes that truly fit.
4Move with confidenceOffers, inspections and closing, with one steady guide keeping it calm and on schedule.

Getting the house ready, or making it yours

If you’re selling and want repairs handled before buyers see them, Super Crew Contractors can give you an estimate. If you’re ready for something custom, Ivy Lane Homes does luxury home building and remodeling. And a quick coverage check with Intrinsic Insurance before closing can save you a surprise. Ready to talk? Start a buyer plan or ask what your home is worth.

Super Crew Contractors, Ivy Lane Homes and Intrinsic Insurance are owned by David Olson; you are free to use any contractor, builder or insurer.

Your next step in Lake Elmo

Lake Elmo homes are priced neighborhood by neighborhood. Whether you’re selling or buying, I’ll help you make a plan that fits.

Please note: I don’t handle rentals or property management. I work with sellers and buyers, and that’s where I can help you most in Lake Elmo.

Twin Cities market notes

Stay close to the market, without the noise.

Every so often I send a short, practical note: what Twin Cities homes did, prep tips that are worth the money, and neighborhoods worth a look.

    It looks like you’re already on the list. Thank you! If something didn’t come through, call or text me at 952-314-9446.
    David Olson, Broker, Twin Cities Property Finder

    Thank you! You’re on the list.

    I’m glad you’re here. A quick confirmation is on its way to your inbox. Whenever you want to talk about your own home or a move, I’m a call or text away.

    — David
    City of Lake Elmocity overview

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